CARD MBA, ICMIF Foundation hold first mutual microinsurance network seminar to strengthen protection for low-income families

CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA), the microinsurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), in partnership with the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF) Foundation, successfully hosted the first Mutual Microinsurance Network Seminar from June 17 to 19, 2026, at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City, Metro Manila.

With the theme, “Replicating Success Globally: Scaling the Mutual Microinsurance Model for the Poorest,” the three-day seminar brought together microinsurance practitioners and leaders to exchange knowledge and experiences on developing programs that are scalable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of low-income communities.

The gathering also provided a platform to discuss emerging industry challenges, explore innovations, and identify the financial and technical support needed to expand microinsurance programs worldwide.

“We recognize that the challenges faced by marginalized communities are too big for any single institution to solve on its own,” said CARD MRI Founder and Chair Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip. “Through partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and mutual support like this, we can replicate successful models and create a stronger and more inclusive microinsurance network.”

The first day focused on the current state of the microinsurance sector, with discussions centered on challenges, opportunities, and successful models from different countries. Speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience-building initiatives in making insurance more accessible to underserved populations.

On the second day, CARD MBA shared its transformation from a members’ mutual fund into a mutual microinsurance provider. Through panel discussions, CARD MBA officials presented the organization’s governance structure, technology-enabled claims settlement system, distribution model through CARD MRI financial institutions, and strategies to encourage greater member participation in ownership and decision-making.

“Mutual microinsurance thrives on trust—not only between institutions and their members, but also among organizations working toward the shared goal of protecting vulnerable communities,” said CARD MBA CEO Jocelyn Dequito.

Dr. Alip also joined fellow microinsurance pioneers in a panel discussion on the key drivers of successful mutual microinsurance programs. He emphasized the important role of social entrepreneurs and collaborative leadership in advancing the mutual microinsurance sector globally.

The seminar concluded with a field visit to San Pablo City, Laguna, where participants observed a CARD Bank center meeting in Barangay San Gabriel. They also engaged with the center chief, treasurer, and secretary and gained firsthand insight into how CARD MBA delivers insurance services and maintains close communication with its members.

A total of 101 microinsurance practitioners and leaders from the Philippines and other countries participated in the seminar, including representatives from the United Kingdom, Myanmar, India, Kenya, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malawi, Mozambique, Paraguay, Thailand, and Timor-Leste.

Through the gathering, CARD MBA and the ICMIF Foundation underscored the importance of collaboration, mutual trust, and knowledge-sharing in expanding financial protection and building stronger economic safety nets for low-income communities around the world.